The Tale of Rishi Kandu and the Enchanting Apsara

The Story of Rishi Kandu and Apsara Pramlocha

Whenever the term 'apsara' is mentioned, it inevitably brings to mind the name of Indra, the king of the gods.

This is well-documented in ancient texts, which describe Indra as a deity who often resorted to deceit and trickery to achieve his goals. One notable incident involved the revered sage Kandu, who was deep in meditation by the banks of the Gomati River. Disturbed by Kandu's intense penance, Indra selected the extraordinarily beautiful apsara Pramlocha and sent her to disrupt the sage's focus.

Pramlocha was stunningly beautiful, and her captivating features overwhelmed Rishi Kandu, leading him to succumb to her charm.

As a result, Kandu abandoned his rituals and meditation, becoming ensnared in the allure of domestic life, thus breaking his rigorous penance.

With their plan successfully executed, Indra and Pramlocha were ready to return to the heavens. However, Kandu, now deeply infatuated with Pramlocha, refused to let her leave. Despite her desire to return to the celestial realm, Pramlocha feared Kandu's curse, which prevented her from departing.

One day, Kandu suddenly remembered his spiritual practices and announced that he was going to resume his rituals.

Pramlocha responded, questioning why he had only now decided to meditate after living in domesticity for so long.

Kandu replied, expressing surprise that she, who had just arrived, was instructing him on meditation. Pramlocha then revealed the truth about her presence, stating that she had been with him for a staggering 907 years. Upon hearing this, Kandu lamented, feeling that all his spiritual efforts had been in vain.

Eventually, Rishi Kandu recognized his predicament and chose to renounce the apsara, returning to his penance once more.